Hunger is a growing concern in many communities, including Eastern Oregon. To address this issue, the Eastern Oregon Forum continues its “Livability” series, this time focusing on food insecurity.
The goal is simple but powerful: ensure that every member of the community has access to nutritious food. This event offers a chance for residents to learn, connect, and participate in local solutions to hunger.
Event Details
The forum will take place on Tuesday, November 18, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Blue Mountain Community College library, Pioneer Hall, 2411 NW Carden Ave., Pendleton.
Residents are encouraged to attend and hear from panelists who have extensive experience in education, public health, and community service.
Meet the Panelists
Four local leaders will share their insights on challenges and solutions related to food access:
| Name | Role & Experience |
|---|---|
| Karen Power | Retired special education teacher, longtime volunteer, past president of Pendleton Altrusa Club, co-chair of Feed the Child program |
| Gary Engum | Civil engineer, former Blue Mountain instructor, worked with Oregon Health Division on water quality, volunteer at St. Mary’s Outreach |
| Stephanie Heaton | Program Director at Community Action Program of East Central Oregon, oversees Regional Food Bank, Area Agency on Aging, and Oregon Money Management Program |
| Maj. Toni Halstad | Leads Salvation Army in Pendleton, manages daily meal service, monthly food pantry, and essential community support across Umatilla County |
Each panelist brings years of experience in working with vulnerable populations and implementing programs to improve food access. Together, they offer a comprehensive view of how hunger affects individuals and families and how communities can respond.
Topics of Discussion
The forum will cover key areas surrounding food insecurity, including:
- The difficulties many residents face in accessing healthy food
- Successful programs and partnerships addressing hunger
- Strategies for volunteers and community members to contribute
- How local organizations collaborate to strengthen support networks
This discussion will not only highlight challenges but also provide actionable solutions and ideas for community engagement.
About the Eastern Oregon Forum
The Eastern Oregon Forum is a collaborative effort by Blue Mountain Community College, the American Association of University Women, and community leaders such as Kathryn Brown and Harriet Isom, a former U.S. ambassador.
The forum is designed to foster discussion, connect people, and encourage community-driven solutions to improve the region’s livability.
By bringing together experts, volunteers, and residents, the forum strengthens the community’s ability to address local problems effectively. Hunger is not just an individual issue—it’s a community challenge, and solving it requires cooperation and collective action.
Why This Matters
Food insecurity affects people of all ages and backgrounds. By participating in forums like this, residents can learn how to make a difference, whether by volunteering, supporting local programs, or spreading awareness.
Ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food is crucial for building a healthy, thriving community.
The Eastern Oregon Forum’s focus on food insecurity is more than just a discussion—it’s a call to action. Local leaders and organizations are working tirelessly to create programs and partnerships that provide meals, food resources, and essential support to those in need.
By attending, learning, and volunteering, residents can help ensure that no one in Eastern Oregon goes hungry. Collective action and community involvement are the keys to a future where everyone has access to healthy food and support.
